The United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit is seeking a highly qualified legal professional to serve as Chief Staff Attorney, a senior executive role responsible for leading the Staff Attorneys’ Office. In this capacity, the successful candidate will act as the Court’s principal legal advisor, ensuring the accuracy, consistency, and timeliness of all legal work produced by the office.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee all aspects of legal and administrative operations within the office, including workflow management, quality control, and performance evaluation.
- Provide expert guidance to the Court on matters of federal law, appellate procedure, constitutional interpretation, and internal judicial processes.
- Collaborate with other court divisions to foster efficient operations and maintain strong interdepartmental coordination.
- Represent the Court on executive leadership committees and contribute to high-level policy discussions.
- Work jointly with chief legal officers from other federal circuits to advise the Administrative Office on national judicial initiatives.
- Supervise attorneys and support staff, providing mentorship, assigning responsibilities, and ensuring professional development.
- Ensure compliance with federal standards, judicial ethics, and automated case management systems.
Qualifications
Candidates must hold a Juris Doctor from an accredited law school and be in good standing with a state, territorial, or federal bar. A minimum of ten years of legal experience—encompassing litigation, legal research, or judicial administration—is required, along with at least five years of supervisory leadership. Expertise in federal appellate practice, civil and criminal procedure, and constitutional law is essential.
Outstanding analytical, writing, and communication skills are expected, along with proven ability to manage professional teams in a high-stakes environment. Familiarity with legal technology and case management systems is necessary. Prior experience in a federal court, government legal office, or as a federal law clerk is strongly preferred.
Compensation and Benefits
This position offers a salary range of $207,565 to $240,466, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Benefits include employer-subsidized health, dental, and life insurance; flexible spending accounts for health, dependent care, and commuting; and eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. The Court offers a hybrid telework arrangement, an on-site fitness center, and mass transit subsidies.
Retirement benefits include the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) with pension and employer-matched Thrift Savings Plan contributions. Employees accrue 13 days of vacation annually, increasing to 20 after three years and 26 after fifteen. Sick leave and 11 paid holidays are provided each year. Retirees may continue insurance coverage at active-employee rates.
Work Environment
This is a hybrid position, allowing for a combination of on-site and remote work as operational needs permit. The Court is committed to equal employment opportunity and adheres strictly to the Judicial Code of Conduct for Judicial Employees. Reasonable accommodations are available during the hiring process—contact Human Resources at (513) 564-7250 for assistance.
